Human enamel nanohardness, elastic modulus and surface integrity after beverage contact

Abstract

This study evaluated nanohardness, elastic modulus and surface roughness of human enamel after contact with citric beverages. Human enamel samples were assigned to 3 groups according to the type of beverage used: carbonated drink, orange juice and tap water (control). Surface roughness was assessed using a profilometer, and nanohardness and elastic modulus were recorded using a nanoindenter. The pH of the beverages was measured before and after citric contact during 5 weeks. Means(SD) were as follows: Carbonated drink: elastic modulus decreased from 111.6(14.5) to 62.3(10.3) GPa, nanohardness decreased from 4.62(0.67) to 1.28(0.46) GPa, roughness increased from 5.30(2.39) to 6.86(2.56) μm, and the pH changed from 2.69(0.35) to 2.29(0.24); Orange juice: elastic modulus changed from 115.15(12.94) to 92.11 GPa (13.83), nanohardness from 5.54(1.48) to 3.18 GPa (0.64), roughness from 5.26(2.27) to 6.73(2.25) μm, and pH from 3.46(0.20) to 3.03(0.14); Tap water (control): elastic modulus changed from 117.87(22.3) to 107.91(20.05) GPa, nanohardness from 4.35(1.66) to 4.28(0.93) GPa, roughness from 5.76(3.11) to 6.11(2.65) μm, and pH from 7.97(0.28) to 8.11(0.21). In conclusion, soft drink exposure caused a significant decrease in nanohardness and elastic modulus. The pH of the soft drink was more acidic from 5°C to 37°C. Orange juice showed a similar trend but, surprisingly, it had less effect on hardness, elastic modulus and roughness of enamel than the carbonated drink.